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TORONTO – In the lead up to the historic case at the Supreme Court, English Montreal School Board v Quebec, the Canadian Constitution Foundation is releasing a new book explaining the case and its implications. Section 33 on Trial takes a look at the history of the notwithstanding clause, and examines the issues at stake in the case, the positions of the parties and interveners, and the theoretical divide that could reshape Canada’s Constitution for a generation. The case is a major constitutional challenge to Quebec’s secularism law, Bill 21, but more broadly the case is about the scope of section 33. The hearing is scheduled for March 23-26, 2026.

For a limited time, the Canadian Constitution Foundation is making a digital version of the book available at zero cost. The book is also available in hard copy on Amazon.

“The Bill 21 litigation is complex, and will have serious implications for Canada’s Constitution and the relationship between courts and legislatures. This book is designed to clarify the issues at stake in the case for every day Canadians who want to understand what this case involves and what it might mean for our future,” said the Canadian Constitution Foundation’s interim Executive Director, Christine Van Geyn. “Section 33 on Trial gives Canadians a clear guide to the debate over the notwithstanding clause, and explains why the Supreme Court’s decision in this case will define the future of Constitutional rights in Canada.”

Section 33 on Trial is available now as a free downloadable eBook from the Canadian Constitution Foundation by clicking here.